Blood culture and sensitivity
Quick answer: A blood culture checks whether bacteria or yeast are growing in your blood, and if so, which antibiotics will work against them. Doctors order it for high fever, chills or suspected sepsis, ideally before antibiotics are started.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 10 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff if you have already started antibiotics.
How the test is done
- 1The skin is cleaned carefully to avoid contamination
- 2Blood is drawn into two or more special culture bottles
- 3Samples are often taken from two different sites
- 4The bottles go into a machine that watches for growth
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results can take a few days; a positive result names the organism and the antibiotics it responds to.
If the result is outside the usual range
Growth of bacteria or yeast can point to a bloodstream infection, which can be serious. Sometimes skin germs contaminate the sample, so doctors judge results with symptoms and repeat cultures.
Who usually has this test
People with high fever, chills or signs of serious infection, including after childbirth or procedures.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible where the blood was drawn.
Names and options
Also called: blood culture, blood C/S, sepsis test
Listed by the hospital as
- BLOOD CULTURE & SENSITIVITY
Questions about this test
Why is blood taken from two sites?
If the same germ grows from both, it is more likely to be a true infection. Growth in only one bottle can be from skin contamination.
Should blood cultures be taken before antibiotics?
Yes, if possible, as antibiotics can stop germs growing in the bottle. Treatment is not delayed if someone is very unwell.
What does sensitivity mean on a culture report?
It shows which antibiotics stop the germ from growing. This helps doctors choose or change treatment.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.